When it comes to co-sleeping or cot-sleeping, there is really no right or wrong. There are, however, benefits and risk factors to both options. Another practical reason for co-sleeping is that close proximity is believed to facilitate breastfeeding.

There is evidence that babies who room-in at hospital or co-sleep at home breastfeed for longer and possibly sleep better. Meg is sceptical of the bonding benefits of co-sleeping. Bonding happens over time from pregnancy through the first year of life, regardless of some of the practical choices a mom makes.

Headrests like this were used in life to support the head while sleeping. Odysseus also gives an account of how he crafted the nuptial bed for himself and Penelope , out of an ancient, huge olive tree trunk that used to grow on the spot before the bridal chamber was built.

However, this only happens from 4 to 6 months, when he starts to learn to self soothe. Before then, babies need you to regulate everything for them and the only real benefit for a baby sleeping in his own room would be for your own sleep. For example, a mom that is suffering from postnatal depression , or is a light sleeper, may cope better with her baby in a separate room. Since the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended that all babies should be placed on their backs in , deaths from SIDS have declined dramatically.

But sleep-related deaths from other causes, including suffocation, entrapment and asphyxia have increased. If you place him on his side, use a wedge to stop him from rolling over onto his stomach. Place your baby between you and your partner, and never on the edge of the bed. Never share a duvet or pillow with your baby.

cot bed safety rail argos

Dress him in an extra layer to what you have on and swaddle him. Make sure that your bed is firm, almost as hard as a futon. A waterbed or a very soft mattress is a high risk factor. Be careful not to overheat your baby with a hat, too many layers or heaters.

Stomach-sleepers have an increased risk of SIDS. Place your baby at the bottom of the cot so he can shift up. Never give your baby a duvet or pillow.

Dress him in one more layer than what you have on and swaddle him. Remove soft toys and cot bumpers.

Once your little one has started to climb out her cot, simply remove one side of the bed for easy access and to assist with potty training. Check out our range of colours and materials available here at Baby Bunting. Just six babies in the research group had a quiet night's sleep on their own.